Respirator Fit Testing in the Workplace
Ensuring Optimal Respiratory Protection
At Hayden Health & Safety, we recognise the critical importance of effective respiratory protection in the workplace, particularly in light of the growing body of research on the impact of various materials and fibres on lung health such as asbestos, silica, fibreglass etc. Our comprehensive respirator fit testing services are designed to meet industry regulations and ensure that your employees are adequately protected against airborne hazards.
What to Expect During Your Fit Test
- The fit testing process typically takes 20-30 minutes per employee. During the test, employees will wear their respirator while performing a series of movements and speaking tasks to ensure a proper seal is maintained.
- Our experienced technicians guide employees through each step of the process, ensuring the test is conducted comfortably and accurately.
- Fit testing can be conducted at your workplace via our mobile units or at our Cardiff, NSW facility, depending on your needs.
Compliance and Testing Frequency
Our fit testing services adhere to Australian Standards AS/NZS 1715:2009 and the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011.
We recommend the following testing schedule:
- Initial Fit Testing: Conducted prior to the first-time use of a respirator by an employee.
- Annual Fit Testing: Performed annually for employees who routinely use respirators, ensuring continued protection against respiratory hazards.
Customised Respiratory Protection Programs & Reports
We provide comprehensive reports on fit test results, helping you maintain accurate records and compliance. We also assist in developing customised respiratory protection programs that align with your business’s specific requirements, ensuring the highest level of safety for your employees.
Commitment to Workplace Health and Safety
At Hayden Health & Safety, our goal is to partner with you in fostering a safe, healthy work environment. Contact us to learn more about our respirator fit testing and other health assessment services that go hand-in-hand, and discover how we can help safeguard your employees’ respiratory health and overall well-being. Students can book their Fit Test below.
Respirator Fit Testing FAQs
Respirator fit testing ensures that the respirator seals properly on the wearer’s face, providing the necessary protection against airborne contaminants. A poorly fitted respirator can allow hazardous substances to enter the lungs, putting the wearer at risk.
There are two types of fit tests: qualitative and quantitative. In a qualitative fit test, the wearer is exposed to a test agent (e.g., saccharin) and asked if they can detect it while wearing the respirator. A quantitative fit test uses a machine to measure the amount of leakage around the face seal.
Fit testing should be done before the first use of a respirator, and then at least annually or whenever there are changes in the type of respirator, the wearer’s facial structure, or any significant weight changes.
If a worker fails a fit test, they must be provided with a different size or type of respirator and retested. The goal is to ensure that all workers have the proper protection before starting work in hazardous environments.
Yes, we provide on-site respirator fit testing using our mobile testing units. This allows for convenient and timely testing, ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
Testimonials from our partners
We have worked with Hayden’s Health and Safety for many years and they consistently demonstrate their high level of professionalism, dedication, honesty and positive attitude in all aspects of their service delivery. The team have a genuine passion for health and safety in the workplace and they work hard to expand their knowledge and skills in new and developing technologies in order to provide us, their customer, with best practice at all times. We look forward to continuing our work with Hayden’s Health and Safety and would have no hesitation in recommending them to other organisations.